Sedan: 2013 Chevrolet Malibu

Originally published: October 30, 2012

SMALL

MEDIUM

LARGE

Chevrolet is betting that its new 2013 Malibu, the nameplate’s first major redesign since 2007, will become a key player in the brand’s lineup.

The Malibu represents Chevrolet’s first global mid-sized car to be sold in nearly 100 countries on six continents. Indeed, the car’s first official appearance did not take place at a North American car show – the Malibu was first revealed in Shanghai.

For the Canadian market, six variants are on offer, two of which carry the Eco designation. These are powered by the combination of a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine and a small electric motor-generator producing 15 horsepower for a total output of 197 hp. Also available is an all-new 2.5L four-cylinder, sans electric assist, also rated at 197 hp.

Styling-wise, the new Malibu does not break any new ground, despite the borrowed-from-the-Camaro tail lights. But the car is very aerodynamic, with a drag coefficient that is almost equal to that of the Corvette or Volt.

The Eco models feature an aluminum hood, smooth underbody panels and an active shutter system in the lower grille to reduce drag. This aerodynamic efficiency coupled with an acoustic laminated windshield also enables the Malibu to stand out as one of the quietest cars in its class at highway cruising speeds. The Malibu Eco is also equipped with an automatic start/ stop system that shuts the engine off when the car is stopped, only to restart it when the driver releases the brake pedal.

The Malibu is not a driver’s car – it is a Point A to Point B in a straight line highway cruiser that is very quiet most of the time. Drive the new Malibu smoothly, steady and straight and all will be well. Ask it to perform briskly, and it will want you to return to the regularly scheduled programming as soon as possible.

The new Malibu is shorter overall. It also makes do with a shorter wheelbase, which effectively reduces the amount of rear-seat legroom and the comfort level of rear-seat occupants, even if hip and shoulder room are marginally better.

Up front, the driver and front passenger are effectively separated by the twin-cockpit design, but the new Malibu will feel roomier than the outgoing model. The car feels more upscale thanks to higher-grade interior materials and an ice blue ambient lighting system for the cockpit.